Train Derails In California, Forcing 200 To Evacuate

The Nation - In Brief

October 17, 2004

PICO RIVERA, Calif. -- A freight train carrying hazardous materials derailed early Saturday, damaging at least four houses and forcing more than 200 people to evacuate, officials said. No serious injuries were reported. Investigators were trying to identify the hazardous materials on board and determine whether any leaked when the nearly 50 freight cars and trailers left the tracks, Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff Luis Castro said. About 500 gallons of diesel fuel spilled. One boxcar went through the roof of a home, and two others smashed into a wall outside a house next door.